Respiratory Therapists Launch New Patient Education Web Site

Hold for Release until October 22, 2003

DALLAS (October 22, 2003) – Today the AARC launches its new Web site, YourLungHealth.org to coincide with Lung Health Day celebrations nationwide. This new patient education site features information on respiratory diseases, conditions and medications.

In an effort to heighten public awareness of the importance of lung health, the AARC designed this best-in-class patient site. YourLungHealth.org is the only lung health-related Web site written by respiratory therapists, the primary caregivers for patients with breathing problems.

Respiratory therapists treat patients who suffer from a variety of lung ailments such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the fourth leading cause of death in the United States, asthma, cystic fibrosis and tuberculosis.

"A major goal of the AARC is to provide information and support to patients, their families and the general public as it relates to pulmonary disorders. This new Web site will serve as a resource on matters related to lung health," said David Shelledy, PhD, RRT, 2003 AARC president.

"The site will contain up-to-the minute information about lung disease, including prevention, diagnosis and treatment. We hope the site will be of value to those with lung disease, and to those who want to learn more about cardiopulmonary problems." Shelledy continued. With approximately 15 million people with asthma in the US and an estimated 30 million people with COPD, this new site should be valuable to those who are curious about their lungs.

YourLungHealth.org offers information in four basic categories: diseases & conditions, basic information, staying healthy, and a members area. The members area has a small fee of $5 per year for access to other valuable features such as the ability to post personal stories and build alliances with others through a bulletin board.

"An important goal of YourLungHealth.org is to provide respiratory patients with information on respiratory medications," says Deb Haider, a respiratory therapist from Minnesota who coordinated the section dedicated to pulmonary medications. "YourLungHealth.org features guidelines for properly taking common respiratory-related drugs. As with any medicine, it is important to take it as your doctor has instructed," Haider continued.
This site is being launched during National Respiratory Care Week, an annual event since 1982, that honors the role respiratory therapists play in the health care arena.

The American Association for Respiratory Care, a professional membership association of respiratory therapists, focuses primarily on respiratory therapy education and research. Its goals are to ensure that respiratory patients receive quality care from qualified professionals and to benefit respiratory health care providers. The Association continues to advocate, on behalf of pulmonary patients, for appropriate access to respiratory services provided by qualified professionals.

Suggested Sidebar:
YourLungHealth.org
The American Association for Respiratory Care's new Web site: YourLungHealth.org is completely devoted to lung health. This innovative Web site tells you everything you need to know about lung conditions and diseases, medications, medical equipment, staying healthy and much more. This site is completely developed by respiratory therapists, the experts in treating and managing lung health.

Diseases & Conditions - Information about asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis, tuberculosis and other diseases, including signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and possible treatments is available.

Basic Information - Is just that, a library full of useful information about your lung health. Here you'll find information about respiratory caregivers, respiratory therapies, the basics of lung function and much more.

Staying Healthy - Tips on eating right, exercise, reducing stress, drinking more water, and getting a good night's sleep. These tips can help you get a handle on how to stay healthy while managing your respiratory symptoms. Information on smoking cessation programs and immunizations is also available.

Members Only - Pay $5 per year and gain access to the AARC's Consumer Roundtable. In this section of the site you'll be able to talk to others with your condition, learn more about respiratory care equipment and manufacturers, and build relationships by sharing information about yourself with others by posting your personal story.

Contact:
Sherry Milligan
972-243-2272
milligan@aarc.org

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